If you’re anything like me, your camera roll is full of sweet snapshots of your kids—but hardly any proof that you were there too. And while a quick selfie with your toddler smooshed against your cheek is adorable, it doesn’t always capture the real, natural connection you share.
The good news? Getting in photos with your kids doesn’t have to feel awkward, staged, or stressful. As a South Jordan family photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how easy it can be to capture real-life, joy-filled moments with your little ones. Here are six creative ways to make sure you’re in the frame—without relying only on selfies.
1. Use a Timer & Play Together
Skip the stiff smiles and capture your kids seeing the real you—fun, present, and playful.
How to do it: Prop your phone or camera on a chair, countertop, or tripod. Set the timer for 10 seconds or use a burst timer so it takes multiple shots in a row. Then dive into play mode: tickle fights, jumping on the bed, or collapsing into a pile of pillows.
Pro tip: If your camera has voice control, you can trigger photos by simply saying “Smile!” or “Capture!” This keeps you in the moment while the camera does the work.
2. Capture Everyday Moments With a Tripod
You don’t need a holiday or milestone to get in the frame. Everyday life—snuggles, bedtime stories, or messy playtime—is worth remembering.
How to do it: Set up a tripod (or even stack books as a phone stand) in your kitchen, playroom, or couch corner. Switch to video mode or use a remote shutter app. Imagine photos of you making dinner together, reading bedtime stories, or building a puzzle.
Over time, these little snapshots add up to a beautiful record of your family’s real story. Years from now, these are the memories your kids will hold most dear.
3. Try Reflection Photos
This is a creative, no-setup-required way to sneak yourself into the frame.
Look for reflections throughout your day: mirrors, windows, oven doors, or even puddles on the sidewalk. Next time you’re brushing teeth together, cuddling on the couch, or watching the rain, snap a quick reflection shot.
Pro tip: Puddle reflections at golden hour (just before sunset) can create dreamy, artistic photos without much effort.
4. Set Your Phone to Video
Sometimes the most natural moments happen in motion. Instead of stressing about the perfect still image, set your phone to video. Capture yourself brushing your child’s hair, making pancakes, or kissing them goodnight. Later, you can pull still frames from the video to save as photos.
This gives you a mix of movement and stills that feel real, raw, and emotional.
5. Hire a South Jordan Family Photographer
The truth is—you deserve to be in your family’s story too. An in-home documentary session is a stress-free way to capture authentic, connection-filled moments without worrying about setting up your own shots.
As a South Jordan family photographer, I love photographing families in their natural element: making breakfast, cuddling on the couch, or playing in the backyard. With my client questionnaire, we’ll highlight the routines and details you most want to remember—those fleeting little moments that often go undocumented.
6. Remember: The Perfect Photo Doesn’t Exist
Your kids don’t care if your hair is messy or the house isn’t spotless. What they’ll cherish is seeing you—laughing, cuddling, and being present with them. Years from now, you’ll be so glad to have proof that you were there, right in the middle of it all.
Ready to Be in the Frame?
If you’re tired of being behind the camera and want authentic, natural family photos in South Jordan, I’d love to help.
✨Click here to view my family photography galleries
✨Book your in-home family photography session today
